EDMONTON – Investigators with Occupation Health and Safety (OHS) were called to a workplace fatality at the Pembina Pipeline site near Redwater, Alta. Wednesday afternoon.
OHS told Global News a worker was wearing an air mask and using an air tank while doing maintenance on a tower when co-workers noticed he was in distress at about 2:20 p.m.
They brought him down and he died at the scene.
In a statement released Wednesday night, Pembina Pipelines confirmed there was a “contractor fatality” at Williams’ Redwater Olefinic Fractionator and that the company would also be conducting an investigation.
In its statement, Pembina said both companies – Pembina and Williams – were “deeply saddened by today’s tragedy and offer their sincere condolences and support to the affected family members through this difficult time. Working safely is the top priority for both companies and all employees and contractors are encouraged to remain vigilant and to look out for everyone’s safety.”
READ MORE: Man killed while working on crane near Blackfalds, Alta.
Although OHS has been called in to investigate, it is not clear if the death is workplace-related or a result of medical distress.
READ MORE: Alberta records 8th workplace death in 6 weeks
The Pembina Pipeline site near Redwater is located about 45 kilometres northeast of Edmonton.
WATCH: Premier Rachel Notley addresses workplace injury and death in Alberta